AmeriCorps funds now available from IDHS
The Serve Illinois Commission
is looking for applicants interested in administering
AmeriCorps funds. AmeriCorps is a program of the
Corporation for National and Community Service, an
independent federal agency whose mission is to
improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster
civic engagement through service and volunteering.
AmeriCorps members serve their communities by
improving education and healthcare, protecting public
safety, safeguarding the environment, providing
disaster relief and promoting civic engagement.
“AmeriCorps is an excellent opportunity for people to
volunteer their time and talents and give something
back to their communities,” said Ted Gibbs, Executive
Director of the Serve Illinois Commission. “Illinois
has a strong tradition of volunteerism and compassion
for those in need. AmeriCorps volunteers make a real
difference in the communities in which they serve.”
The Serve Illinois Commission, part of the Illinois
Department of Human Services, administers the
AmeriCorps state programs in Illinois, and is charged
with enhancing and supporting community volunteerism.
Serve Illinois is funded by the federal Corporation
for National and Community Service and currently
supports 33 AmeriCorps programs throughout the state.
AmeriCorps members dedicate a year to helping
communities meet their unmet human service,
education, public safety or environmental needs.
They receive a modest living allowance, student loan
deferment and training. Full-time members are also
eligible to receive health insurance. Members who
successfully complete their service receive an
educational award of up to $5,550 to help pay for
college, graduate school, vocational training or to
pay off student loans.
Serve Illinois will host mandatory meetings for
interested parties in Belleville, Chicago, Joliet and
Springfield. Proposals are due by Dec. 1, 2011.
For more information about AmeriCorps or Serve
Illinois, please visit www.serve.illinois.gov or call
(800) 592-9896. The website is a valuable resource
for Illinoisans seeking information about volunteer
agencies, trainings, nonprofit resources and national
service programs, including AmeriCorps. The website
includes a user-friendly volunteer matching portal
where you can search for a volunteer opportunity in
your area.